How long does it take for Pepto Bismol to work? (2025)

FAQs

How long does it take for Pepto Bismol to work? ›

Pepto-Bismol should work within 30 to 60 minutes. You can have another dose after 30 to 60 minutes, if you need to. You can take up to 8 doses in 24 hours. Are there other indigestion medicines?

It takes 30 minutes to an hour for Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate) to start working and help relieve diarrhea, upset stomach, and nausea. Sometimes referred to as "the pink stuff," Pepto-Bismol is an over-the-counter (OTC) medication that is safe and effective for short-term use.

If you're taking Pepto-Bismol for diarrhoea, make sure you drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.

As it slowly makes its way out of your body you may see black poo. This side effect usually goes away when you stop taking the medicine but it may take several days.

This medicine is used for heartburn and acid reflux, indigestion, diarrhoea and feeling sick (nausea). It works by protecting your stomach and the lower part of your food pipe from stomach acid. It is also a mild antacid, which helps reduce too much stomach acid and eases any discomfort.

When will I feel better? Pepto-Bismol should work within 30 to 60 minutes. You can have another dose after 30 to 60 minutes, if you need to. You can take up to 8 doses in 24 hours.

Pepto-Bismol is an OTC upset stomach medicine that can also treat diarrhea. The active ingredient is bismuth subsalicylate. It works by slowing down movement in your stomach and intestines. It also lessens chemicals that can irritate your stomach.

If you are taking the chewable tablet, take this medication on an empty stomach. The chewable tablets should be chewed thoroughly before swallowing. If you are using the rapidly dissolving tablets, dry your hands before opening the blister pack to carefully remove a tablet.

Warnings. You should not use Pepto-Bismol if you have bleeding problems, blood in your stools, or if you are allergic to aspirin or other salicylates. You should not use Pepto-Bismol for a stomach ulcer unless your ulcer is caused by H.

A specific product called Pepto Diarrhea is available for diarrhea symptoms, but you can use regular Pepto-Bismol liquid too. Some forms of Pepto Diarrhea are more concentrated than the original, so always follow the package directions.

Why does my poop come out in small soft pieces? ›

Mushy stool with fluffy pieces that have a pudding-shaped consistency is an early stage of diarrhea. This form of stool has passed through the colon quickly due to stress or a dramatic change in diet or activity level. When mushy stool occurs, it's hard to control the urge or timing of the bowel movement.

Drink plenty of liquids while you are taking bismuth subsalicylate. Taking more than the recommended dose will not make this medicine more effective, and may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor if you still have diarrhea after 2 days of using this medicine.

Over-the-counter medicine for traveler's diarrhea is regulated, too. Pepto-Bismol is not sold in France due to a health scare in the 1970s.

The active ingredient in Pepto is bismuth subsalicylate. Once in the stomach, bismuth subsalicylate breaks down into two products—bismuth and salicylic acid—the latter of which is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream.

However, in some cases, Pepto-Bismol may prolong a stomach virus. This is because diarrhea is the body's way of getting rid of the virus, and treating diarrhea may slow this process down. Most of the time, a stomach virus will resolve on its own with at-home care.

All these forms of Pepto Bismol are equally effective and use the same active ingredient, bismuth subsalicylate. Follow the directions and, if you have any questions, contact your healthcare provider.

Pepto-Bismol is an OTC medication used to treat diarrhea in people ages 12 and older. Unlike Imodium A-D, it's also used to relieve other symptoms, including heartburn, indigestion, and nausea. Pepto-Bismol is available as a regular or chewable oral tablet, capsule, and liquid.

Medications to stop vomiting

OTC medications for nausea can include Pepto-Bismol and Kaopectate, which contain bismuth subsalicylate. These medications help protect the stomach lining and reduce vomiting caused by food poisoning.